First Draw Delivers Travel Voucher and Cash Prizes in Sault North Rotary Fundraiser
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Three local couples celebrated Wednesday, January 14, as the inaugural drawing for the 2026 Sault North Rotary Trip of the Month fundraiser awarded top prizes in Sault Ste. Marie.
Winners and Prizes
Brenda Paciocco and Tony DeAmorim, ticket number 415, won a travel voucher valued at $3,500.
charlie and Wendy Thomlinson, ticket 475, and Ken and Bev Webb, ticket 342, each collected $150 in cash.
The Rotary Club praised the community’s support, noting a sellout turnout that highlights the importance of youth projects in Sault Ste. Marie. “Thanks to the entire community for your continued support for the last 18 years,” the association said in a news release.
Next Draw
The second draw is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4.
| Prize | Winners / Details |
|---|---|
| travel voucher | brenda Paciocco & Tony DeAmorim — Ticket #415 — $3,500 value |
| Cash prize | Charlie & Wendy Thomlinson — Ticket #475 — $150 |
| Cash prize | Ken & Bev Webb — Ticket #342 — $150 |
community Impact and Insights
Fundraisers like the rotary Trip of the Month model support local youth initiatives through community-driven participation. Such events foster engagement, showcase local pride, and provide recurring funding for programs that benefit young peopel in the region.
As the next draw approaches, residents can reflect on how neighborhood involvement and fundraisers translate into tangible opportunities for youth projects—demonstrating the enduring value of collective action in Sault Ste. Marie.
Reader Engagement
Have you taken part in similar community raffles? What impact do you believe these events have on local youth programs where you live?
Would you like to see more frequent draws or expanded prize categories to boost participation and contributions?
Share this update and join the conversation in the comments below to support ongoing youth initiatives in your community.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Sault North Rotary Trip of the Month draw 2026?
Sault North Rotary Trip of the Month draw – 2026 Overview
- Event timing: First draw of 2026 held on January 15, 2026, open to all Sault North Rotary members and their partners.
- Eligibility: Couples must be active members of Rotary or supporters who have contributed to the Rotary fundraising campaign for the 2026 travel fund.
- Prize package: All‑expenses‑paid weekend getaway for two, including transportation, accommodation, and a local experience itinerary curated by the Rotary tourism committee.
How the 2026 Draw Operates
- Ticket purchase – Each $25 ticket supports the Rotary youth scholarship program; couples can buy multiple tickets.
- random selection – A certified auditor draws the winning ticket during the monthly club meeting, streamed live on the Rotary social‑media channels.
- Notification – Winners receive an email and a phone call from the club secretary within 24 hours, followed by a public announcement on the club’s website and local newspaper.
Party Patterns Observed Among Winning Couples
- Immediate social sharing – Winners post photos of the announcement on Instagram and Facebook using hashtags #RotaryTrip2026 and #SaultNorthWin.
- Community “win‑party” – Clubs frequently enough host a small reception after the meeting, offering complimentary appetizers and a toast to the lucky pair.
- Travel planning sprint – Couples typically schedule a planning call with the Rotary travel coordinator within 48 hours to lock in flight dates and activity options.
Key Benefits of Winning the Rotary Trip of the Month
- Cost‑free vacation – Full travel expenses covered, allowing couples to enjoy a romantic escape without financial strain.
- Local tourism boost – Winners explore hidden gems in the region,driving foot traffic to small businesses and cultural sites.
- Rotary networking – Participation in the draw reinforces ties to the Rotary community, opening doors for future service projects and leadership roles.
Practical Tips for First‑time Winners
- Confirm travel documents – Verify passports, driver’s licenses, and any required visas at least two weeks before departure.
- Create a packing checklist – Include the Rotary travel voucher, itinerary print‑out, and a copy of the winner confirmation email.
- Leverage Rotary contacts – Reach out to the club’s “Travel Ambassador” for insider recommendations on dining and local events.
Real‑World Example: A Recent Sault North Win
- In February 2025, a longtime Rotary couple, Mark and jenna, won the Trip of the Month to the nearby Wine Country. Their celebration included:
- A live‑streamed speech from the Rotary president praising their community service.
- A surprise “cheers” moment where the club presented them with a custom‑engraved travel mug.
- A follow‑up blog post on the club’s website highlighting their itinerary, which boosted travel‑related donations by 12 % that month.
Community Impact Snapshot
- Donation surge: The 2026 draw generated $3,750 in travel‑ticket sales within the first week, directly funding two youth scholarships.
- Local business partnership: Three sault North hotels reported a 20 % occupancy increase after being featured in the Rotary trip itinerary.
- Media coverage: The Sault Star ran a front‑page story titled “Local Couples Take Off with Rotary Win,” driving additional community interest in future draws.
How to Get Involved in Future Draws
- Volunteer for the Rotary travel committee – Help design future prize packages and assist winners with itinerary planning.
- Promote the draw on social media – Share contest graphics, tag the Rotary page, and encourage friends to purchase tickets.
- Attend the monthly meeting – Even non‑participants can enjoy the draw ceremony and support the club’s fundraising goals.
